Givan: More than 4,300 responses shape next phase of Curriculum 2028

Date published: 2 November 2026

The response makes it one of the most significant curriculum consultations undertaken in recent years and provides a substantial body of evidence to inform the next phase of curriculum reform.

The consultation report, published today, shows broad support for the overall direction of Curriculum 2028, while also highlighting areas where further development is needed before the final framework is published.

Welcoming the publication of the report, Paul Givan said: 

"I want to thank everyone who took the time to engage with this consultation. The scale of the response reflects the importance that teachers, school leaders, families and young people place on ensuring we have a curriculum that prepares our children and young people for success in education, work and life.

"The consultation shows broad support for the overall direction of travel. Respondents recognised the need for greater clarity, stronger progression and a curriculum that sets out more clearly the knowledge, skills and experiences that children should acquire during their education."

Paul Givan noted that while there was significant support for the ambitions of Curriculum 2028 and many of the subject frameworks, respondents also identified areas where further refinement is needed. He continued: 

"The consultation responses are highly valuable. They show strong support for many aspects of the framework. I have always been clear that Curriculum 2028 must be developed with the profession. Teachers are at the heart of successful curriculum reform and their feedback will continue to shape the final curriculum.

"The consultation has highlighted important issues around curriculum content, progression and implementation. We are carefully considering that feedback and continue to work closely with schools, teachers and educational partners to refine the proposals where necessary."

The Minister said the Department's focus is on ensuring the curriculum is both ambitious and deliverable. He said: 

"Getting this right matters. Curriculum reform is one of the most important opportunities we have to raise standards, tackle educational disadvantage and improve outcomes for every child. That is why we are taking the time to listen, reflect and refine before implementation."

Paul Givan also announced a further programme of engagement with schools and the teaching profession over the coming months. The Department has written to every school inviting teachers to participate in a series of dedicated curriculum focus groups that will help inform the final framework and its implementation. He continued: 

"I want as many teachers as possible to have an opportunity to contribute to the next stage of this work as we ensure implementation is informed by classroom experience. 

"Curriculum reform is a once in a generation opportunity. The consultation has provided a strong foundation for the next phase of development, and I am determined that we continue to build a curriculum that is ambitious, coherent, knowledge-rich and capable of delivering better outcomes for all our children and young people."

The Consultation Report can be accessed at: https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-northern-ireland-curriculum-2028

The final Curriculum 2028 framework is expected to be published in January 2027, alongside further information on implementation arrangements.